Soukop Dam

North Branch Forest River-TR· Walsh, North Dakota· Built 1962· Earth· 17 ft tall
Significant Hazard Flood Risk Reduction Local Government

Key Takeaway

Soukop Dam is classified as significant hazard in North Dakota. It was completed in 1962 and is 64 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 17 ft (taller than 56.8% in ND)
Dam Length375 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage1.1K acre-ft
Normal Storage50 acre-ft
Surface Area33 acres
Drainage Area3 sq mi
Year Completed1962 (64 years old)
NID IDND00040

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: September 24, 2019
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: ND DWR

Ownership

Walsh County WRB

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Soukop Dam?

Soukop Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Soukop Dam?

Soukop Dam is owned by Walsh County WRB (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Soukop Dam built?

Soukop Dam was completed in 1962, making it 64 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.

What is the primary purpose of Soukop Dam?

Soukop Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Soukop Dam?

Soukop Dam has a dam height of 17 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.

When was Soukop Dam last inspected?

Soukop Dam was last inspected on September 24, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.